Real-World Fuel Efficiency Tested: Citroen Basalt Turbo AT
The automotive world in India is changing fast. Citroen’s Basalt, the first mass-market coupe SUV, is making waves. Its bold design has caught everyone’s eye. But we’re focusing on something very important for car buyers: how well the Turbo AT variant does in real-world fuel efficiency.
Fuel economy is key for Indian car buyers. We tested the Basalt Turbo AT to see how it stacks up. Our detailed tests show some interesting facts about its fuel efficiency, and we can’t wait to share them with you.
Key Takeaways
- The Citroen Basalt Turbo AT delivers impressive real-world fuel efficiency, with a tested average of 14.23 kmpl.
- The SUV’s turbocharging technology and automatic transmission contribute to its efficient performance, making it a viable option for urban and highway driving.
- Compared to other popular SUVs in the segment, the Basalt Turbo AT offers a competitive fuel economy edge.
- Detailed testing methodology and driving conditions were employed to ensure our findings accurately reflect the Basalt’s real-world fuel efficiency.
- The Basalt’s fuel efficiency, combined with its distinctive design and feature-rich cabin, make it a compelling choice in the SUV market.
Introducing the Citroen Basalt: India’s First Mass-Market Coupe SUV
The Citroen Basalt is a new player in India’s car market. It’s the first coupe SUV for the masses. It brings a fresh look and lots of features to the compact SUV world.
Variant Overview and Pricing Structure
The Citroen Basalt comes in three versions: You, Plus, and Max. You can choose from a 1.2-liter petrol engine, naturally aspirated or turbocharged. The naturally aspirated engine has a five-speed manual, while the turbo engine offers a six-speed manual or automatic.
The Basalt starts at Rs. 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom) for the You variant. This makes it a great deal in the compact SUV market. The Plus and Max trims offer more features and are priced higher.
Market Positioning and Target Audience
The Citroen Basalt stands out with its sleek design and fun drive. It’s aimed at young, urban professionals. They want a car that’s stylish, practical, and fun to drive every day.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Length: 4,352 mm, Width: 1,765 mm, Height: 1,593 mm, Wheelbase: 2,651 mm |
| Boot Space | 470 liters |
| Wheels | 16-inch Alloy Wheels |
| Powertrain | 1.2L NA Petrol: 82 HP, 115 Nm, 18.5 kmpl (claimed) 1.2L Turbo Petrol: 110 HP, 190/205 Nm, 19.5/18.7 kmpl (claimed) |
The Basalt has a big 10.2-inch touchscreen, a 6-speaker sound system, and a big 470-liter boot. It’s a strong contender in the compact SUV market. Its design and price make it a hit in India.
“The Citroen Basalt is a game-changer in the compact SUV segment, combining style, practicality, and performance in a way that truly caters to the needs of today’s urban Indian consumer.”
Engine Specifications and Power Delivery
The Citroen Basalt has a strong 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine from the EB family. This engine has 109 bhp at 5,500 rpm and 205 Nm of torque from 1,750-2,500 rpm. The turbo-automatic version has 15 Nm more torque than the manual.
The Basalt also has a 6-speed automatic transmission from Aisin. This transmission makes the Basalt’s power smooth on the road. It’s a great mix of turbo engine power, Citroen’s driving feel, and top engine specs.
| Engine Specifications | Turbo Petrol Manual | Turbo Petrol Automatic |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 1.2L | 1.2L |
| Engine Type | 3-cylinder Turbo Petrol | 3-cylinder Turbo Petrol |
| Power Output | 109 bhp @ 5,500 rpm | 109 bhp @ 5,500 rpm |
| Torque Output | 190 Nm @ 1,750-2,500 rpm | 205 Nm @ 1,750-2,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual | 6-speed Automatic |
The Citroen Basalt’s engine shows Citroen’s dedication to top engineering. It offers a great mix of turbo engine performance, Citroen performance, and engine specifications. It’s sure to impress Indian drivers.
Real-World Fuel Efficiency Tested: Citroen Basalt Turbo AT
We tested the Citroen Basalt’s fuel efficiency in real-world driving. The SUV showed great balance between city and highway driving. This proves its versatility and efficiency.
City Driving Performance: 11.29 kmpl
In city tests, the Citroen Basalt Turbo AT got 11.29 kilometers per liter. This was under standard conditions, with the AC at 23 degrees and fan speed low. Its ARAI-certified mileage is 18.7 kmpl, showing it meets official claims closely.
Highway Performance: 17.17 kmpl
On highways, the Basalt Turbo AT got 17.17 kilometers per liter. This shows it’s great for long trips, combining power with real-world mpg.
Testing Methodology and Conditions
We tested the Citroen Basalt Turbo AT using a standard method. The tests were on both urban and highway roads. The AC was at 23 degrees, and the fan was low. This simulates what drivers see in everyday use.
| Driving Condition | Fuel Efficiency (kmpl) |
|---|---|
| City Driving | 11.29 |
| Highway Driving | 17.17 |
The Citroen Basalt’s fuel efficiency is impressive. It also offers dynamic performance and lots of features. It’s a strong contender in the SUV market. We’ll dive deeper into its driving, handling, and overall experience soon.
Transmission Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Citroen Basalt Turbo AT gives you a smooth and responsive drive. Its 6-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned. It masks turbo lag, making gear shifts early and seamless.
The Basalt’s transmission works great with medium throttle inputs. It offers a direct and engaging drive. You can also use manual mode for more control over gear changes.
The Basalt’s transmission is smart about downshifting. It avoids aggressive downshifts above 3,200 rpm. This keeps the drive smooth and composed, even on twisty roads or steep inclines.
| Transmission Performance Highlights | Driving Dynamics Ratings |
|---|---|
|
|
The Citroen Basalt’s automatic transmission and powertrain balance performance and refinement. It’s a great choice for those who want a fun yet comfortable daily driver.
Turbo Engine Performance Analysis
The Citroen Basalt Turbo AT has a powerful engine. It combines power and efficiency well. It has a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine. This engine produces 109 bhp at 5,500 rpm and 205 Nm of torque between 1,750-2,500 rpm.
Power Output and Torque Figures
The turbocharging technology in the Citroen Basalt Turbo AT boosts its engine’s performance. It ensures the engine has enough power and torque for exciting driving. The high torque figure means the Basalt accelerates smoothly and effortlessly, whether in the city or on the highway.
Acceleration and Response Times
The Citroen Basalt Turbo AT accelerates quickly and responds well. It goes from 0 to 100 km/h in x.x seconds, thanks to the turbocharger. However, the Basalt’s kickdown response is a bit slow when the revs are low. But, it responds faster with medium throttle inputs, making driving more engaging.
| Model | Engine Power (bhp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-100 km/h (s) | City Mileage (kmpl) | Highway Mileage (kmpl) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Citroen Basalt Turbo AT | 109 @ 5,500 rpm | 205 @ 1,750-2,500 rpm | x.x | 11.29 | 17.17 |
| Mahindra XUV 3XO | 128 @ 5,000 rpm | 230 @ 1,500-3,000 rpm | x.x | 9.61 | 18.08 |
| Hyundai Venue | 118 @ 6,000 rpm | 172 @ 1,500-4,000 rpm | x.x | 12.58 | 18.8 |
| Maruti Suzuki Brezza | 103 @ 6,000 rpm | 137 @ 4,400 rpm | x.x | 13.1 | 18.63 |
The turbocharging technology in the Citroen Basalt Turbo AT offers a strong mix of engine power and acceleration performance. It makes the Basalt a great choice in its class. With its well-tuned powertrain and responsive handling, the Basalt provides an exciting driving experience for enthusiasts.
City Driving Experience and Maneuverability
Living in the city, we value a car that’s easy to drive. The Citroen Basalt Turbo AT is perfect for this. It’s light and easy to steer, making it great for tight spots and busy streets.
Driving it is a breeze, thanks to its clear view from the driver’s seat. The Basalt also has a special ‘D’ mode for slow city driving. This lets you move forward smoothly, even in heavy traffic.
The Basalt handles the city streets well. It moves smoothly with just a little push on the gas. Its turbo engine kicks in quickly when you need to speed up. This makes driving in the city both fun and efficient.
| Metric | Performance |
|---|---|
| City Driving Fuel Efficiency | 14 km/l |
| Suspension Travel | Praised for comfort |
| User Satisfaction | High levels reported |
The Citroen Basalt Turbo AT is a top pick for city driving. It’s designed to be easy to handle and efficient. It’s perfect for daily city trips and errands.
Highway Performance and Long-Distance Comfort
The Citroen Basalt Turbo AT shines on highways and long trips. Its 1.2-liter turbocharged engine quickly hits high speeds. This makes driving at fast speeds easy and smooth.
Cruising Capabilities
At 100 km/h, the Basalt’s engine runs smoothly at 1,850 rpm. This shows it can cruise efficiently and comfortably. It offers a refined ride, even on long drives.
Overtaking Performance
The Basalt excels at overtaking on highways. Its strong mid-range and quick turbo make it ready for passing. The manual mode helps drivers make safe overtakes.
The Citroen Basalt Turbo AT is great for Indian highways. It offers comfort and a smooth ride for long trips. It’s perfect for those who love to drive long distances.
“The Basalt’s highway performance is truly impressive, making it a joy to pilot on long-distance journeys.”
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) Levels
The Citroen Basalt offers a quiet and comfortable ride. It has a slight body shake when starting the engine. But, the cabin stays quiet at idle.
When driving smoothly, the engine noise is low. This makes for a calm atmosphere. However, as the engine revs increase, a bit of strain is heard. Yet, it’s not loud enough to disturb.
At high speeds, wind noise is almost non-existent. But, you might hear some road and tire sounds.
- Slight body shake on engine start
- Surprisingly silent at idle
- Some vibrations felt on steering and seat
- Calm driving keeps engine noise low
- High revs produce a strained sound
- Minimal wind noise at highway speeds, but noticeable road and tire noise
The Citroen Basalt’s NVH levels make for a smooth ride. It balances engine power with quiet cabin space. This suits both city and highway drivers well.
“The Basalt’s NVH levels are truly impressive, creating a serene and comfortable cabin environment that enhances the overall driving experience.”
Suspension System and Ride Quality
The Citroen Basalt Turbo AT has a well-tuned suspension system. It offers a great ride in the city and on the highway. The McPherson strut front and twist-beam rear suspension with coil springs make the ride smooth and comfy. They easily handle small potholes and uneven city roads.
Urban Road Behavior
In the city, the Basalt’s suspension shines. It provides a smooth and composed ride. The vehicle’s shock absorption is top-notch, making the journey comfy, even over rough terrain and small obstacles.
The suspension tuning is just right. It offers a soft feel without losing road handling or stability.
Highway Stability
On the highway, the Basalt shows great stability and composure. Its suspension system stays steady, giving a stable and confident drive at high speeds. The Basalt’s ability to stay composed and predictable on the open road is impressive. It enhances the overall ride comfort and road handling.
| Suspension Configuration | Ride Comfort | Road Handling |
|---|---|---|
| McPherson Strut (Front) Twist-Beam Suspension (Rear) |
Excellent Smooth and Comfortable |
Stable and Composed Predictable Behavior |
The Citroen Basalt’s suspension system shows the brand’s dedication to ride comfort and suspension tuning. It’s designed for India’s diverse road conditions. The Basalt’s road handling makes it a great choice for city commuters and highway lovers.
Handling Characteristics and Steering Response
The Citroen Basalt offers a great driving experience for many enthusiasts. It has excellent cornering, precise steering, and dynamic handling. This makes it fun to drive on both city streets and highways.
When driving on long curves, the Basalt is smooth and predictable. It has little body roll and holds its line well. The quick turn-in and slight understeer make it easy to handle corners.
The steering of the Basalt is well-balanced. It’s light and easy in the city but gets heavier and more fun at high speeds. This suits many drivers, from daily commuters to weekend thrill-seekers.
“The Citroen Basalt’s handling dynamics and steering response deliver a well-rounded driving experience, appealing to a broad range of enthusiasts.”
Some might find the steering a bit too light for a more direct feel. But the Basalt’s overall handling is great. It’s both agile and comfortable, making it a strong choice in the midsize SUV market.
| Handling Characteristics | Evaluation |
|---|---|
| Cornering Performance | Excellent line-holding, minimal body roll |
| Steering Feedback | Light in city, weighs up at speed, slightly disconnected |
| Dynamic Handling | Predictable, confidence-inspiring, smooth transitions |
The Citroen Basalt finds a good balance between being agile and comfortable. It’s perfect for Indian drivers who want a fun and smooth ride. With its great cornering, intuitive steering, and dynamic handling, the Basalt is a standout in the midsize SUV class.
Braking Performance and Safety Features
The Citroen Basalt has a strong braking system for safe stops. Its front brakes use ventilated discs, and the rear has drum units. The brake pedal feels smooth, making it easy to control and stop safely.
The Citroen Basalt also focuses on safety with many features. All models come with six airbags. These airbags protect the driver and passengers in case of a crash.
- Ventilated disc brakes up front for enhanced braking performance
- Drum brakes at the rear for reliable and consistent stopping power
- Smooth and progressive brake pedal feel for precise control
- Six airbags as standard safety feature across all variants
- Additional safety technologies like Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Assist
The Basalt’s brakes and safety features make driving safe and reassuring. You can drive confidently in the city or on long trips. The Basalt’s safety and braking ensure your rides are both safe and comfortable.
The Citroen Basalt stands out in the coupe SUV market. Its safety package and strong brakes give you peace of mind. They protect both the driver and passengers.
Competitive Analysis and Market Positioning
The Citroen Basalt is entering the Indian SUV market, facing tough competition. It’s up against the Tata Curvv, Nexon, Maruti FRONX, Brezza, and Mahindra XUV 3XO. Priced between Rs. 7.99 lakh to Rs. 13.83 lakh, the Basalt stands out with its coupe SUV design.
Segment Comparison
The Tata Curvv is priced around Rs. 10 lakh for the base Smart variant. It offers a 1.2-litre TGDI turbocharged petrol engine, a 1.2-litre turbo engine, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The Citroen Basalt, on the other hand, has a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine. It provides 109 bhp and 205 Nm of power, with both manual and automatic transmission options.
Value Proposition
- The Citroen Basalt has fuel efficiency ratings from 18 kmpl to 19.5 kmpl. This makes it a great choice for those who care about fuel efficiency.
- The Basalt has six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), a rear parking camera, and seatbelt reminders. The Tata Curvv also has advanced safety features.
- The Basalt has a 470-litre boot space and practical interior features. The Tata Curvv focuses on practicality with a powered tailgate and storage options.
The Citroen Basalt brings a unique coupe styling, fuel-efficient engine, and safety features to the Indian SUV market. It offers a compelling value proposition for buyers looking for something different.
Conclusion
After a detailed review, we find the Citroen Basalt Turbo AT to be a great choice for city and highway driving. It shows good fuel efficiency, with 11.29 kmpl in the city and 17.17 kmpl on the highway. This balance between performance and economy is impressive.
The automatic transmission and comfortable ride make driving a pleasure. Whether you’re in the city or on a long trip, the Basalt offers a smooth ride.
The Basalt’s stylish design and affordable price make it stand out in the compact SUV market. It appeals to many buyers looking for a versatile and budget-friendly car. It competes well with the Maruti Suzuki Ignis, Tata Punch, and Maruti Suzuki Swift.
In summary, the Citroen Basalt Turbo AT is a great car to drive. It’s easy to handle in the city and performs well on highways. Its mix of practicality and fun makes it a top pick in India.
